Analysis & Reports

Ondas Inc. launched LADOS, a Layered Autonomous Defense Operational C2 System, on June 10, 2026, in West Palm Beach. This system integrates various defense technologies to enhance operational capabilities across multiple domains, supporting mission execution and coordination. LADOS aims to reduce operator workload and improve decision-making in complex defense environments.

DARPA announced plans on June 5, 2026, to develop a Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC) aimed at enhancing military communications by enabling interoperability across various error correction standards. This initiative, led by Allyson O’Brien, seeks to create a single encoder-decoder system that can adapt to changing battlefield conditions, improving efficiency and reducing power consumption for military operations.

The U.S. plans to withdraw key military assets from NATO's rapid reaction forces, including an aircraft carrier strike group and numerous fighter jets, raising concerns about NATO's ability to deter Russian threats. This decision follows a broader strategy to reduce U.S. military presence in Europe, with 5000 troops set to leave Germany. The upcoming NATO summit in Ankara will discuss the implications of these changes for European defense responsibilities.

House Republicans voted to remove a provision from the defense policy bill that would have restricted military lawyers from serving in civilian roles, such as immigration judges. The amendment, proposed by Rep. Jason Crow, was defeated in a 31-26 vote during the House Armed Services Committee's markup. This decision has raised concerns about the implications for military legal personnel and their focus on military-related duties.

The People's Liberation Army Navy's Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted 170 deck cycles over three days from May 26 to 28, 2026, in the Western Pacific, south of Japan. The carrier group included five vessels, demonstrating operational capabilities and rehearsing for potential future military engagements. This activity complicates US and allied operations in the region, indicating a shift in the PLAN's operational comfort.

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The Defense Cyber Defense Command (DCDC) is developing a framework to respond to cyberattacks on critical infrastructure in Baltimore. This initiative includes creating 'digital green zones' to identify and secure critical data. The DCDC, elevated to a sub-unified command under US Cyber Command in May 2025, aims to establish clear command and control lines for cyber defense, especially in light of threats from Chinese hackers targeting U.S. infrastructure.

The U.S. Army is modernizing its network to address vulnerabilities exposed by artificial intelligence capabilities, as stated by Army IT official David Markowitz at the TechNet Cyber conference in Baltimore. He emphasized the need for rapid threat assessment and response to maintain network security. The Army faces challenges in adapting its command and control systems and requires cultural changes to effectively manage these new threats.

The U.S. and Chinese militaries conducted a meeting in Hawaii on May 28-29, 2026, to discuss maritime military security and safety protocols. They emphasized the importance of effective communication to enhance mutual understanding and avoid misunderstandings. China reiterated its opposition to actions that threaten its sovereignty and security.

Gen. Frank Donovan leads U.S. Southern Command, focusing on the integration of autonomous warfare systems to enhance operational capabilities. He emphasizes the need for a robust data environment to support these systems in diverse terrains. The command is working on establishing the SOUTHCOM Autonomous Warfare Command to address operational gaps and improve coordination with partners.

Engineers from major defense contractors are developing software patches at Fort Carson to integrate military systems, with some already deployed to troops in CENTCOM. This initiative, part of Project Jailbreak, aims to enhance command-and-control capabilities and reduce the complexity of battlefield information. The Army plans to push additional patches within the next 30 days to improve operational effectiveness.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted training exercises in the West Pacific from May 25-26, 2023, involving the Liaoning aircraft carrier and the newly integrated 054B Luohe frigate. The naval group, which included five ships, performed fixed-wing and helicopter operations, showcasing a shift towards a more integrated naval task force. This exercise highlights the PLA Navy's evolving capabilities and operational strategies in the region.

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The Army Data Operations Center (ADOC) was launched at Aberdeen Proving Ground to improve data integration among military systems. The team of 25 soldiers and civilian engineers has handled 68 requests since its inception on April 3, focusing on command-and-control systems and logistics. Brig. Gen. Mike Kaloostian emphasized the need for long-term solutions to data-sharing challenges, with a decision on ADOC's future funding expected by September 30.

The Pentagon announced the promotion of 22 Navy officers to rear admiral, with no women included, highlighting ongoing barriers to women's advancement in the military. This continues a trend where women have not been promoted to flag officer ranks over the past year. Currently, only 6% of admirals in the Navy are women, despite women making up 15% of active duty Navy captains. The report emphasizes systemic issues affecting women's representation in senior military roles.

MARSS signed a contract extension with a GCC client to enhance the NiDAR systems' air defense capabilities. The US$115M agreement includes the addition of longer range Air Defence Radars and missile systems, improving coverage against asymmetric threats. The NiDAR platform utilizes AI for rapid threat detection and response, ensuring a comprehensive defense strategy.

U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is actively seeking AI tools to enhance tactical operations and resource allocation in remote locations. The focus is on developing AI capabilities that can function without reliance on cloud computing, utilizing concepts like 'fog computing.' SOCOM is also exploring partnerships with smaller startups to meet these needs, aiming to simplify operations through advanced technology.

Most U.S. military branches fail to effectively monitor annual suicide prevention training completion, with only the Air Force tracking it adequately. The Government Accountability Office reported that the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps do not regularly assess the effectiveness of these programs, contributing to rising suicide rates among service members. Recommendations for improved data collection and evaluation of training efficacy were made to enhance mental health support for troops.

The 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment fired its final rounds as a Paladin unit at Fort Carson, Colorado, on May 7, marking the end of 43 years of service. This event coincided with their first use of the new Artillery Execution Suite during a division-wide exercise, symbolizing a transition to modernized artillery systems. The battalion's restructuring reflects the Army's initiative to enhance operational capabilities.

Northrop Grumman showcased its AiON counter-drone command and control system at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa, Florida, from May 18 to 21. The system integrates various sensors and weapons into a unified interface, significantly reducing the operator's workload in managing drone threats. This demonstration highlighted the urgent need for advanced counter-drone capabilities in modern warfare, particularly against drone swarms.

Navy Adm. Frank M. Bradley stated that AI will always require human oversight in special operations during a discussion at SOF Week in Tampa, Florida. He highlighted the importance of trust in AI systems for delivering lethal actions, asserting that human operators must ensure compliance with international laws of armed conflict. The command actively tests AI tools to meet operational requirements.

Gurpartap Sandhoo was appointed as the head of the Missile Warning and Tracking Portfolio Acquisition Executive office by the Space Force on May 11. He will also continue in his role as the permanent director of the Space Development Agency. This new office aims to enhance missile tracking capabilities, overseeing the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared constellation and the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking program.